Wednesday, October 31, 2007

West Ham - What the Papers Say

In The Daily Express Ian Dowie wishes West Ham luck in the cup, "I am a West Ham fan, so now I hope they go on and win it," said Dowie, "But for a blink of an eye it might have been us."

The Daily Mail think West Ham progressed only "with a large slice of good fortune."

The Telegraph were impressed by Coventry's Michael Mifsud, who they thought was "elusive and mischievous up front."

The Guardian say that Coventry were 'magnificent' and that "it was difficult to distinguish which club belonged in the Premier League."

The Independent report that Curbishley thought this West Ham's "poorest display of the season but fortune favoured them."

The Times say Coventry "lacked precision in the final third." They also say a happy end to the evening was soured for West Ham with Anton Ferdinand and Hayden Mullins suffering "hamstring and knee injuries respectively to lengthen West Ham’s already considerable casualty list."

West Ham Concede They Were Lucky

Alan Curbishley admitted after yesterday's game that West Ham were second best in their Carling Cup tie.

"Coventry were the better side, we all know that. We didn't win a header, we hardly won a tackle, people were running off us, and then when we did get the ball back we found it very difficult to keep it.

"All the things that we were hoping to do to Coventry, they did to us. Great credit to them, they played exceptionally well.

"We got a bit of luck, but you get so many knocks in this game, you take it. We've got through, and we'll look forward to see who we get in the next round."

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Coventry 1 West Ham 2

Lucky, lucky West Ham. For most of this game you couldn't see where a West Ham goal was going to come from. As it happened the first West Ham goal came courtesy of a Coventry player.

Just four minutes after Jay Tabb had given Coventry the lead, heading home Isaac Osbourne's cross from a couple of yards, Marcus Hall put the ball in the back of his own net to make it 1-1. The own goal came from a Neill free-kick into the box, that was cleared to Boa-Morte 18 yards out. Boa-Morte shot left-footed and Hall's attempt at blocking the shot put the ball past his own keeper.

In the dying seconds, with the game looking like it was going to extra time, Boa-Morte headed the ball on into the penalty area. Carlton Cole looked second best to get to the ball first but shook off a defender and slotted the ball home from 12 yards.

Not the most convincing win but a win nevertheless and without the punishment of extra-time.

Ashton Back for Sp~@s

Dean Ashton is back running but is not expected to return to action until the To~@enham game on 25th November. However Ashton says he is refusing to worry,

"It seemed as if there was something against me," Ashton said. "After my experiences last season, there is nothing in football that could worry me.

"The whole situation has changed my outlook massively and it made me appreciate what I've got. I also think it has made me a lot stronger mentally."

In other news The Daily Mirror is linking Juventus' Tiago with West Ham. Tiago joined the Italian club this summer but has made just four appearances this season. Tiago definitely seems to want to move to the Premier League saying,

"The Premier League gives you great projection across the world and I just hope I get more opportunities than I have had at Juventus.”.

However the link with West Ham could be just the paper or his agent's wild speculation. Central midfield is not a problem position at the club. I would assume that West Ham will be concentrating on securing the services of another striker if they are to make any moves in January.

West Ham's Faubert On the Way Back

According to the newly redesigned West Ham official site Julien Faubert is making good steps in his recovery from injury.

George Cooper, the club's head physiotherapist says,

Over the last couple of weeks, Julien has been jogging in a pool and the water has been getting shallower and shallower so he can put more weight on it.

"That went really well so, as scheduled, he is now running on land which will last six weeks. The running will intensify over that period and he will do jumping, plyometric movements to strengthen his achilles. If that goes well, he will then be reintegrated back into training."

Monday, October 29, 2007

Cole Winning Over West Ham Fans

Carlton Cole has admitted he has been 'hurt' by the abuse he has received from some West Ham fans. Cole who has put in a number of good performances this season and was many fans man of the match on Saturday hopes he has put the boos behind him.

"I hope my relationship with the West Ham fans is on the upturn," said Cole. "They have been on my back. I got booed a lot and it hurts, but it's in my hands to try to change them and get them on my side.

I had a long think about my future in the summer. I didn't know if I was coming or going. But my friends and family told me to stick it out. If I didn't think I could do a job here I would leave. I want to make an impact at West Ham."

Robert Green , who also gained many plaudits after Saturday's game, is Matthew Upson's choice for England goalkeeper.

He has been in awesome form all season, strong and commanding," Upson said. "He has been outstanding and if he keeps going like that I can't see how England can overlook him.

I can't think why you would want to keep him out but he has been in or around England a long time and maybe the case is that you start to be recognised as just a squad member and not a serious contender.

That's the danger but I think he is now stating a case to play. If you're in enough squads and never actually playing you get pigeon-holed as a squad member."

West Ham, Cole and Green Impress

The Independent believe Green enhanced his chances for England with 'a near-faultless display' against Portsmouth. West Ham had a 'well-organised defence' and 'were impressive on the counter-attack and had the best two chances.'

The Daily Telegraph say Green 'outshone' David James and were equally impressed by Alan Curbishley,

"If intelligent coaching were the criterion for appointing an England manager – which it isn't ... then Alan Curbishley could be our man."

The Daily Mail were impressed with Carlton Cole stating that "Sol Campbell and Sylvain Distin will testify to the bruising they got" at his hands. They feel Cole was almost rewarded for his hard work "with an impressive shot on the turn", the rebound of which Solano should have buried. Cole commented, "I'm exhausted."

The Times were also impressed by Cole who, "scored against Sunderland last week and impressed against Portsmouth on Saturday, hitting the bar and leading the line with effort and strength."

The Guardian say that "Robert Green put in a performance that strengthened his case to be England's new No1." and Cole "put in a mature performance against Portsmouth's robust central defensive partnership."

Bellamy Out of Cup Game

Alan Curbishley has revealed that Craig Bellamy's injury will keep him out of West Ham's Carling Cup game against Coventry on Tuesday. Curbishley also suggested that a few of his players might make surprising recoveries by the time of the next international break.

"Craig's injury is not too bad but there's still something niggling there," said Curbishley. "He won't be playing Tuesday. He has had this abdominal strain through the pre-season and despite the operation which we went off to have in Germany it has come back again.

"He could be weeks out or it could be something that can be sorted out quickly but we have two more games now and then have to worry about the international break again - when I always seem to have players trying to come back from injuries."

Sunday, October 28, 2007

West Ham in the Sundays

On Setanta Alan Curbishley bemoans the injury to Craig Bellamy, “He has an abdominal strain and it’s just getting worse as he is carrying on and it’s obviously something that we have to sort out,”

The Sunday Mirror say West Ham have a striker crisis after Craig Bellamy was forced off at half time in yesterday's game against Portsmouth. Manager Alan Curbishley revealed that the combative Wales international has a recurrence of the abdominal injury that forced him to have surgery earlier this month.

He will now have a further examination and joins a list that already includes Kieron Dyer, Dean Ashton, and Bobby Zamora.

The only fit striker left at the moment is Carlton Cole and he becomes an automatic selection for the Carling Cup clash against Coventry City this week.

"It is a problem but we just have to get on and deal with it," said manager Alan Curbishley, "there is nothing we could have done because they are impact injuries."

The Observer says West Ham remain keen on Reading fullback Nicky Shorey. West Ham are unlikely to recruit in January's transfer window, other than bidding for an additional striker and perhaps Reading's England left-back, Shorey.

The club are more intent on off-loading some of the players signed during the summer, as there are concerns over the number of injuries some have picked up. Craig Bellamy, Freddie Ljungberg, Nolberto Solano, Kieron Dyer, Scott Parker and Julien Faubert all joined then.

The News of the World says that West Ham are ready to test Everton's resolve by making a £9million bid for Andy Johnson. If a cash bid does not work they might even throw defender Anton Ferdinand into the deal.

Curbishley is a long time admirer of Andy Johnson who has struggled with form and fitness this season. David Moyes, who paid £8.6million for the England striker, wants Johnson to stay and the club are even prepared to give him a new deal and the player himself has indicated that he is happy on Merseyside's.

But Alan Curbishley sees Andy Johnson as an ideal foil for Dean Ashton and an alternative to the unpredictable Craig Bellamy. Defender Anton Ferdinand is no longer guaranteed a starting place at Upton Park and could form part of a package.

The Star says that Fulham are battling Reading and Birmingham City to land West Ham striker Bobby Zamora. Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez has £4million to spend in the January transfer window and has Bobby Zamora top of his shopping list.

Although Zamora, 26, has been injured for much of this season Fulham and Birmingham city are also keen to secure his services.

Saturday, October 27, 2007

West Ham Disappointed

Alan Curbishly, speaking after today's game, said West Ham were disappointed with only a point but Curbs did have some encouraging words for Solano and Green,

"We're disappointed a bit that we've only got one point but we are pleased with what we've done and it would have been a disaster to have it taken away right at the end.

We played well and came here with a game plan because Portsmouth are playing so well and I think it has paid off. It could have been better. Nobby Solano had two great chances with his head, but it is not his forte.

He hasn't enhanced his reputation in that respect but he worked hard and shows a lot of experience for us and I know he'll be a good signing.

He's been playing terrifically well for us all season. I think he's always been on the threshold of England and they are fully aware of him. Before the last squad announcement, I spoke to (England manager) Steve McClaren who was interested in Dean Ashton and one or two others and Greenie got a mention.

The message to Robert now is 'keep going and lets see what happens'. He can't do anything else."

Pompey 0 - West Ham 0 and Green for England

West Ham weathered an early storm from Portsmouth to finish the first half looking the more comfortable. Early on Portsmouth pushed hard going forward and on 8 minutes Kranjcar fired in a dipping shot from 30 yards but Green was equal to the shot and pulled off a great save. Form the resulting corner Mendes shot from 20 yards but missed the left goalpost by inches. A minute later and Green made another good save, this time with his feet from a Gabbidon deflection.

After about 15 minutes West Ham seemed to settle down and on the 20 minute mark Mark Noble had an attempt on goal for West Ham, shooting over from a long way out. Three minutes later and the best chance of the half came to Solano, who should have headed home a Cole cross from three yards out but failed to connect properly with the ball.

In the dying seconds of the half West Ham pressured the Portsmouth box which culminated in a free-kick to West Ham 20 yards out. Solano's kick however was easily gathered by James in goal and the half ended 0-0.

Bellamy came off at half time with a knock to be replaced by Etherington. The change seemed to suit West Ham as Etherington's pace down the left gave West Ham a better outlet from defence. In fact after a Pompey push in the first few minutes West Ham were the better team and on balance probably deserved to win the game.

West Ham's best chance of the half again fell to Solano who, again, missed with his head. If anything this was an even easier chance than the one in the first half. The opportunity came after some good build up play that finished with an Etherington pass to Cole in the box who turned his defender and fired in a shot from about ten yards. His shot rebounded back off the crossbar and fell to Solano a couple of yards out with only an empty net in front of him. However Solano again failed to get a decent head to the ball and headed wide of the goal.

In the dying seconds and with the game looking like it was heading towards a draw Gabbidon handballed on the edge of the area. The referee gave Portsmouth a penalty. Green stood tall, Benjani shot low down to Green's left and Green got down well and pushed the ball away.

In all a much better performance and a good point away from home against a side that has been in superb form. Come On You Irons!

Cottee Exists in the Realm of Wurzel Gummidge

The Sun says that Mathew Etherington is in talks with West Ham over a new contract, ”I’m in talks over a new contract but maybe there was a time when I didn’t think I’d get one,” Etherington said.

The Daily Mail say Alan Curbishley is jealous that Harry Redknapp's side has not been struck by injuries, “Unlike me, he's been able to put out the same side every week so they've all been able to slot in. I haven't been able to do that.”

The Mirror continue on the same theme saying West Ham are jealous of Pompey's start, "They had a real tricky start on paper, the top four teams, and got through that. They have had a fantastic run and can it continue? He finds himself in the top six. A terrific start," said Curbishley.

In The Guardian Russell Brand compares Tony Cottee to Wurzel Gummidge, "Cottee is a hero of mine, occupying a place in my affections so formative that it is almost impossible to view him objectively. He exists in a realm shared by childhood pets, Wurzel Gummidge and Morrissey."

Who Ate All The Pies

West Ham Round-Up

West Ham's Matty Etherington has revealed that he thought Alan Curbishley would sell him over the summer,

"The manager brought in so many players it does make you wonder if you're still in the his plans, but I've got my head down, worked hard and it's good to be in the team,

Lucas Neill, on the official site, believes that Pompey will be a tough nut to crack, "They are on a very good run at the moment so it will take a near-best performance from us to break that."

A WE57 HAM number plate sold yesterday for £57,000 which shows that West Ham do have some rich fans as well as some fans with more money than sense. The plate was sold at auction to an anonymous bidder.

Friday, October 26, 2007

Portsmouth vs West Ham

Form and recent history seem to favour Portsmouth for this game. Pompey are unbeaten at home this season and have won their last four games, West Ham have won once in four league games and have lost their last two away games. Pompey also managed the double over West Ham last season, beating us at home and away.

Kanu (knee) and David Nugent (groin) are out with injuries, Sean Hughes and Sean Davis are suspended for Portsmouth. West Ham are set to name the same squad as for Sunderland.

Curbishley will probably start with Ferdinand in defence this week after the mess at the back last week. After the impact of Solano and Boa Morte at the end of the Sunderland game Curbishley may consider dropping Bowyer and Etherington.

West Ham have looked out of sorts recently and despite the scoreline were hardly convincing last week. Realistically Pompey look clear favourites, West Ham will probably be happy with a point from tomorrow's game.

Curbs on Board at West Ham

Most of the media are reporting today that Alan Curbishley is in agreement with the club over the appointment of a technical director at West Ham. Curbishley doesn't seem to be saying any more than was said at the weekend, namely;

he has been consulted at all stageshe is helping to define the role / write the job descriptionrecruitment of players will still be down to him and the scouts.

West Ham have been rumoured to be keen on appointing a foreign technical director which makes you wonder about the last point. There have been rumours that the club wants someone who has more knowledge of foreign players. So Curbishley may find he has a little more help with recruitment than he thinks.

Thursday, October 25, 2007

West Ham Player Rumours

Fulham manager Laurie Sanchez has denied being interested in West Ham's Bobby Zamora but admits he did enquire about the striker in the summer and was knocked back.

Eggert Magnusson has also admitted to attempting and failing to sign a striker in the summer. Eggert says he tried to sign Icelandic forward Kolbeinn Sigthorsson. Sigthorsson actually signed for AZ Alkmaar in Holland but Eggy has not given up on signing the 17 year old for West Ham one day.

Kevin Keen speaking after Kyle Reid's superb appearance for the reserves this week believes he is close to breaking into the West ham first team,

"He's going well, in both training and playing consistently, and is on the fringes of the first-team squad."

Eggy Backs American Football

Talking to Sky Sports News Eggert Magnusson says that playing a competitive Premier League game in the USA would be 'good for the game'. The NFL plays the first regular season game away from North America (presumably that is why there is a game of crap football at Wembley this Sunday). Arsenal's American shareholder Stan Kroenkeagreed agreed, saying,

"I think there is a reasonable chance it could take place in the future."

I can't see this decision being very popular with season ticket holders. I have no problem with pre-season friendlies being held in America but what possible benefit could come from playing a competitive game there? The only outcome would be to alienate the fans of the clubs involved.

Clubs Target Zamora

The Daily Mail say that Fulham and Reading are interested in buying West Ham striker Bobby Zamora. Chairman Mohamed Al Fayed 'wants to go shopping in the January sales' and will hand Sanchez £4 million in order to land Zamora. Reading however may launch a counter offer.

Fat Sam Sues West Ham's Neill

According to The Daily Mail Sam Allardyce is suing West Ham defender Lucas Neill and his agent Peter Harrison for £645,000 in a dispute over a land deal.

Allardyce and Harrison were both implicated last year in the BBC Panorama investigation into football corruption, when Harrison claimed payments to Allardyce's son Craig could smooth the transfer of players to the Reebok.

Parker Injury Setback

There were rumours that Scott Parker was to have started for West Ham reserves this week, so it was a bit of a surprise when he wasn't named in the squad. According to Setanta the reason was that Parker has suffered another injury setback. Parker's comeback in now not expected until the start of November.

Parker's midfield colleague Nigel Quashie however did manage to complete the game and is now available for selection for the first team.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

West Ham Reserves Held to a Draw

West Ham Reserves drew 1-1 away to Fulham Reserves tonight. The West Ham team included John Pantsil, Jonathan Spector, Kyle Reid and Nigel Quashie. Fulham opened the scoring in injury time at the end of the first half when Bradley Hudson-Odoi's left foot shot deflected off the West Ham defence to beat Marek Stech in goal.

Kyle Reid impressed for West Ham in the second half. He floated one free-kick over a defensive wall only to be denied by the post. The ball was then scrambled out for a corner. From the resulting corner Reid slotted home West Ham's equaliser. In the dying seconds West Ham had a chance to nick a win when Reid played Jack Collison through on goal, but Etheridge, in goal for Fulham, blocked the shot.

West Ham Match Highlights

West Ham Delighted With Points

Speaking on the official West Ham site Craig Bellamy says the three points earned on Sunday were more important than the performance.

"I felt a bit leggy because of the busy week I've had," Bellamy said. "I've been out for a month and then been travelling and playing all over. So trying to cram so many games in is obviously going to take its toll but I got a second wind in the last 15 minutes and just ran off the back of that basically.

"We were delighted to get the three points. Obviously it was a bit tough towards the end but getting the three points was more important than how we performed because we didn't perform as well as we should have done. But the 3-1 scoreline did flatter us a little bit."

Monday, October 22, 2007

Saint Dailly

West Ham's Christian Dailly is to stay on loan at Southampton for another month. Dailly was drafted into the Saints' back defence in September and despite the Saints' poor defensive record has obviously done enough to impress. Saints boss George Burley said,

"We brought him in for a month as we had other players coming back from injury, but we have lost more players and we are short of numbers."

The Telegraph believe West Ham 'shaded the first period' but in the end needed a change of luck to prove that Curbs 'did know what he was doing after all'.

The Guardian believe that Kenwyne Jones and a clutch of his colleagues 'did not deserve to be on the losing team' although West Ham deserved to be ahead at half-time and Bellamy had 'a fine individual performance' for West Ham.

The Independent say that "for a period of 20 minutes in the second half after Kenwyne Jones' equaliser, Alan Curbishley's side conspired to throw this game away ... The game's crucial moment was Robert Green's save from Grant Leadbitter's shot just before the hour which, with the score at 1-1, Alan Curbishley called "match-winning"."

The Mail say Sunderland deserved a point and that "Green made a save worthy of an England call-up when he tipped Grant Leadbitter's leftfoot strike on to a post."

Sunday, October 21, 2007

West Ham 3 Sunderland 1

West Ham at home to a team fighting against relegation looked second best for much of the game. Sunderland played with five in midfield and only one player up front, however Sunderland's one striker made monkeys out of West Ham's back four.

Kenwyne Jones had the advantage over Upson and Gabbidon in the air and looked to have them beat on the ground as well. West Ham have always struggled at the ugly part of the game and it took West Ham until the hour mark, which was eight minutes after Jones had scored, for West Ham to put the Sunderland striker on the floor. A side managed by Curbishley is always likely to struggle creatively but you would expect them to get stuck in a little more and let a lone striker know he would have to fight for the ball.

On the positive front Cole opened the scoring well for West Ham, Solano looked good when he came on and Bellamy showed that his recent absences have not affected his scoring touch.

West Ham in the Sunday Papers

The Observer confirm the rumours that West Ham are looking for a technical director. They say that Curbs is involved in deciding the job description of the new role. The technical director will be 'responsible for all matters below the first team' according to a senior club source.

The club want a multi-linguist with good contacts throughout Europe and especially in the eastern Europe.

The Observer also say there is still a chance of West Ham moving into the Olympic Stadium,

'There is still a chance of that happening because there is a split among the responsible authorities,' said an executive at the ODA, the body responsible for delivering the infrastructure of the London Games.

Also, Mark Noble has taken over from Carlos Tevez as the hero of Upton Park. Noble would have stayed at West Ham even if relegated and his attitude and all-action performances have led to his shirt being the top seller in the club shop.

The People take a different stance on the news of West Ham's decision to appoint a technical director. Saying Curb's should watch out for his job.

The People also say that Sp~@s want to buy Luis Boa Morte for £1.5 million. (If true West Ham should agree but only in part exchange for Gareth Bale). And that West Ham want Wayne Bridge.

The Daily Star says Rob Green thinks he is the best goalkeeper in England,

"I have to believe I am the best keeper in England I have had the opportunity to establish myself at Norwich City and at West Ham but not with England.

I have stepped up from last season. All I can do is work hard and play well".

West Ham vs Sunderland

This game could well be a tale of who has the biggest squad. Sunderland will be missing defender Paul McShane (suspended), striker Andy Cole (calf), midfielder Carlos Edwards (hamstring), defender Russell Anderson (ankle) and captain Dean Whitehead. West Ham are missing Ashton, Zamora, Collins and Parker (to name but a few). Camara, Ferdinand and Ljungberg all face late fitness tests.

Both sides will be desperate to get something out of this game to get their season back on track and turn around recent poor form. Injuries to key strikers on both sides could lead to a low scoring game. West Ham have not scored in four hours of Premier League football and appear reliant on Bellamy returning to the form he was in before his injury.

Sunderland will probably see a point as a successful return and will no doubt come to defend. Will West Ham have enough guile to break them down? Probably.

Saturday, October 20, 2007

West Ham Manager Says No to England

According to The Guardian Alan Curbishley has ruled himself out of the running to replace McClaren as England manager, saying he wants to continue his job at West Ham. Curbishley was interviewed for the England job eighteen months ago, as were Sam Allardyce and Martin O'Neill.

Unlike Curbishley Fat Sam and Martin O'Neill have been careful not to deny their interest in the England job.

Curbs Says Green Good Enough for England

Alan Curbishley believes Robert Green is the solution to England's goalkeeping problem.

“He came out of the England squad through injury and has done nothing wrong,” said Curbishley.

”He's been very consistent for us the back end of last season and he's started the same again this season. All he can do is keep going. I spoke to Steve McClaren before the Russia game about Robert and one or two other things.

Noble Disagrees With Curbishley

Mark Noble says he doesn't feel that he needs to be rested because of his age. Alan Curbishley had said he left Noble out of the starting eleven in West Ham's last game because Noble being a young player needed a rest.

"To be honest, I'm not going to agree because I'm only 20 and I don't feel like I need any rest," said Noble. "I want to play every game.

"Resting isn't sitting on the bench on a Saturday - resting is in the summer on a beach. It's not an excuse."

Friday, October 19, 2007

West Ham's Walking Wounded

Alan Curbishley has given an update on some of the injuries West Ham players are carrying in the run up to the Sunderland game,

"Henri Camara has trained this week so there's a chance he'll be fit. Freddie Ljungberg came off in the warm-up for Sweden, so we'll have to assess him today.

"Craig Bellamy came through his games for Wales and he's full of beans. He's had a similar operation to Michael Owen and a similar comeback. We're looking forward to welcoming him back. The Reading game, where we last really saw him, seems a long time ago."

Curbishley also explained his decision to leave Mark Noble out of the West Ham team that faced Villa,

"I left Mark Noble out up at Villa," he said. "He's had an amazing 20 games, the last ten of last season and he played through the summer for the Under-21s. I just felt I should give him a break at Villa.

"He's only 20 and I explained to him that being left out isn't fatal. He's stormed back this week and done great for the Under-21s. I was at a supporters' do last night and they were saying he's the highest shirt seller at the club. He's homegrown and the fans have a great affinity with him.

He displays all the qualities the fans want to see. He was one of the players that really gave us the impetus to get out of trouble last season and there is plenty more to come from him."

West Ham Let Another Tevez Go

It appear Carlos Tevez's brother Miguel has signed a two and a half year contract with Manchester United. Miguel Tevez had a trial with West Ham last year but it appears, like his countryman Javier Mascherano, he is not good enough to play for West Ham.

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Curbishley for England

The Daily Mail claim West Ham manager Alan Curbishley is on a list of five to replace McClaren as England manager.

Curbishley is their outside shot of the five at ten to one but according to KUMB he may well be available for employment if West Ham lose to Sunderland this Sunday. KUMB believe that four losses in a row would be too much for an ambitious board.

West Ham's Nobel Cause

Mark Noble has returned from England U21 duty determined to spur West Ham on in the same way he inspired the England U21 team to victory on Tuesday,

"I want to score as many goals as I can. Goals give you confidence and I want to also score for West Ham. West Ham need to kick on now. We haven’t had a win for three games and with a squad like ours, that shouldn’t happen.

We need three points on the table and we need to give the fans something to cheer about."

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Sven for England

You can hardly blame McClaren, a man with little football management experience and none at the highest levels. The FA are to blame for making such a ridiculous appointment in the first place. Hopefully the FA have phoned McClaren already and given him twelve hours to resign, if not they have to sack him.

What England need is a manager with some Champions League or international experience. Unfortunately that rules out most English managers. An unemployed former Chelsea manager comes to mind as one possibility.

Another man with Portuguese connections is Luiz Felipe Scolari. His insistence on honouring his contract with Portugal means he may well have turned down the England job before McClaren was offered it. His contract with Portugal runs out after Euro 2008 so it may be possible to get him to agree to take over after that competition. England could then make a temporary appointment of an English manager like Terry Venables with Stuart Pearce or Peter Taylor as assistant.

Dyer Targets West Ham Return

Kieron Dyer thinks he can return from injury before the end of the season,

"I never doubted that I would be able to recover. There have been a couple of players who have had a double break of the leg and they made a full recovery.

It's quite a simple operation and the operation went well. I'm just playing it by ear now and taking it day by day. I'm starting to pick-up the rehab now and fingers crossed I will feature before the season is up."

Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Noble is Back

After being dropped from the starting eleven for West Ham's last game and missing England U21's game on Friday through suspension, Mark Noble demonstrated his ability in tonight's international with two goals in the first twenty minutes.

Barca Hint at Gudjohnsen Exit

Barcelona technical secretary Txiki Beguiristain has dropped a big hint that Eidur Gudjohnsen and Santiago Ezquerro are no longer wanted at the club,

"If Ezquerro and Gudjohnsen are not given playing time then we will have to look for a situation that suits everyone. What is clear is that if there is an offer then first of all we will have to talk to the player. I know that Ezquerro is thinking about playing abroad."

Gudjohnsen has been a target for West Ham since their Icelandic takeover last year.

West Ham News Round-Up

Danny Gabbidon has hit back at Welsh critics of his performance on Saturday, "Nobody can say I don't care. I have shown every time that I try to give 100%."

Rumours, emanating from the always unreliable West Ham Fans, say West Ham will be appointing a technical director. The suggestion that it will be Guus Hiddink is ridiculous as he has always claimed that he wants to honour his contract with Russia until 2008 (and it appears he has already turned down the England and Chelsea jobs).

Carlos Tevez's brother Miguel Tevez, 17, is on a two week trial at Man Utd. I think he also had a trial for West Ham last season.

Former West Ham defender Slaven Bilic could see his Croatia side qualify for next summer's finals in Austria and Switzerland if England beat Russia tomorrow night. Bilic is another name that West Ham Fans have been throwing around for the so called position of technical director at West Ham. Again the rumour seems very unlikely. Having nearly qualified for Euro 2008 you would assume he would want to manage his country at the finals.

West Ham's Noble for England

Mark Noble should be back in action for England U21 tonight after missing the game against Montenegro because of suspension. England have nine points from nine and will be hoping to extend their lead of qualifying Group 3 in the race to reach the 2009 European Under-21 Championship.

Monday, October 15, 2007

West Ham Give Trial to Young Pole

West Ham have invited Poland Under-17 international Filip Modelski for a week's trial at the club. The 16-year-old defender currently plays for Polish side Arka Gdynia but will fly to London on Sunday.

Modelski said,

"Everything started when I received an international call-up to join Poland U17 for the European Championship qualifications. Following the second game against Norway, one Polish player agent called me and offered trials at West Ham.

I treat this trip as a reward and a great experience. I will have the chance to train in a great club in a huge city. Frankly, I cannot wait to go there. However, these are only trials. It does not mean that I will change my club."

Cole Happy Despite West Ham Boo Boys

Carlton Cole has become the player the fans love to hate but insists he is happy at West Ham,

"I'm settled at the club and I want to stay. This is the first time I've actually stayed at a club and done two pre-seasons with them, because normally I'm off in the second pre-season.

I'm just happy that I'm doing well now and hopefully I can stay and do better things for the club.

Every striker goes through times when they can't score but hopefully I'll get that one goal and then the floodgates will open."

Cole has made six appearances this season, four as a substitute, and has yet to score. He is the fourth placed striker at West Ham behind Zamora, Bellamy and Ashton. West Ham have also been linked with a £12 million bid for Andy Johnson, which would push the forward even further down the pecking order if it happens.

Reading Want West Ham's Noble

According to TeamTalk Reading manager Steve Coppell is "keen on West Ham midfielders Hayden Mullins and Mark Noble" but is worried he would have to 'pay over the odds'. I've no idea where they dragged that up from. Presumably he is also keen on Ronaldinho and Kaka as well. I hear they would cost a few bob as well.

Sunday, October 14, 2007

Collins Returns to West Ham

James Collins has been forced to withdraw from the Wales squad to face San Marino after having had to withdraw from Saturday's game with a calf injury. Collins scored Wales' only goal on Saturday but has now returned to West Ham and will not play in Wales' Wednesday game.

West Ham News

The Sunday Mirror claims West Ham will appoint a technical director at Upton Park in a bid to compete with the elite teams in the Premier League.

The appointment has the backing of boss Alan Curbishley but could lead to speculation about his job being under threat after three successive League defeats. West Ham were poised to interview a top Dutch coach last week but pulled the plug after receiving adverse reports.

The Sunday People say West Ham will bid £12 million for Andy Johnson. West Ham have had their interest reactivated following the break down of relationships between Johnson and David Moyes.

The Hammers chief has seen his squad ravaged by injuries this season and club owner Bjorgulfur Gudmundsson has assured him significant funds will be available to strengthen his squad.

The Sunday People also say that West Ham goalkeeper Jimmy Walker is wanted on loan by Oldham Athletic.

The Star discuss West Ham's injury crisis. Julien Faubert and Kieron Dyer are out until next year while Scott Parker and Anton Ferdinand are also out on the injury list.

Striker Dean Ashton tweaked his medial ligaments while Henri Camara, George McCartney, and Luis Boa Morte also picked up injuries during the 1-0 defeat against Villa last weekend.

West Ham Due Score Then Get Injured

Freddie Ljungberg and James Collins both scored on international duty and both were substituted after picking up injuries.

Ljungberg scored in the 19th minute for Sweden but later picked up a knock to his left calf. He was substituted as a precaution and is still expected to play against N. Ireland on Wednesday.

James Collins was not so lucky. He got his first international goal for Wales but picked up an ankle injury that forced him from the game. Craig Bellamy and Danny Gabbidon both managed the full ninety minutes.

Saturday, October 13, 2007

Green Pleased West Ham Play Wright in Cup

In today's Independent Robert Green warns England not to be complacent in today's game. He recalls the number of times he has been in teams beaten by 'lesser' opposition,

"My personal bogey matches are any in the League Cup. With my record in the competition, I am pleased for everyone associated with West Ham that the manager has played Richard Wright in the cup so far this season! With defeats to clubs like Brentford, Cheltenham and Chesterfield, I feel I am well-qualified to talk about the difficulties of playing lesser opposition."

Bellamy Has West Ham Blessing

Craig Bellamy insists he has West Ham's blessing to start tomorrow's game for Wales,

"There has been no issue with West Ham. They want me to get on with football and get back to the form I was in before I was hurt,” said Bellamy.

"I do not see a problem, I feel I can play 90 minutes. Obviously I will come off if it starts hurting. West Ham have handled it well, but every club is different. In the end you are their player and I suppose I am happy now I am at a different sort of club.

It is not about whether it is Wales or West Ham. This is the next game available to me and I need to play. That is why I am here.”

West Ham Players Take Risk for Country

The Daily Mail claim that Freddie Ljungberg is insisting playing for Sweden despite carrying a rib injury.

The paper also says that Craig Bellamy has set his sights on leading Wales this weekend, nine days after having groin surgery. West Ham had cleared Bellamy to play for Wales next Wednesday but according to The Mail Bellamy is willing to risk everything by playing tomorrow.

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Dyer Injury Update

Reports that Kieron Dyer has begun training have been a bit optimistic. Yesterday Dyer met with his surgeon and had an x-ray on his leg which showed the bone is growing round the fracture at the rate we would expect it to.

West Ham United head physiotherapist George Cooper says,

"He was given the all-clear to continue using two crutches and to put the injured leg down, gradually introducing weight over the next month. If that goes well the process will then be to use one crutch, thus introducing more weight and then, after that, walking with no crutches at all."

West Ham Striker Hits 12 Goals in Six Games

Young Freddie Sears is on fire for West Ham U18's. He has scored hat-tricks in his last two games and has scored an amazing 12 goals in six games.

The rest of the U18's aren't doing too badly either. They have scored 17 goals in their last three games, beating Millwall 7-3, Cardiff 6-0 and Chelsea 4-1. After narrow losses in their first two games the U18's have begun to prove that the West Ham Academy is as strong as ever.

Chelsea Fans Are Soft

Ex Chelsea manager and loud mouth Jose Mourinho has been explaining the lack of atmosphere and the frequent empty seats at Chelsea. He feels it is isn't because he made them the most boring team in England but because their fans are soft,

"In the most disadvantaged area of London they’re fans of West Ham," however Chelsea fans are "foreigners ... the soft sort of fan who doesn’t get behind the team a lot, who don’t organise themselves into fan groups, with the cheering on that is characteristic of the image of English football.

Tevez Nominated for FIFA Player of the Year

Carlos Tevez is among 30 players nominated for the FIFA world player of the year award. Wayne Rooney, John Terry, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard are the only English players nominated. The favourite however is probably AC Milan's Kaka.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

West Ham's Rob Green Frustrated

The Sun today say that Arsene Wenger wants to buy West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green. The rag says that Green is fed up with consistently being overlooked by England boss Steve McClaren and wants to boost his chances of an international call-up with a move to the Emirates.

There is one fact that The Sun have overlooked that suggests they have made up this story, Robert Green is English.

Tuesday, October 09, 2007

Ashton Could Be Out For Six Weeks

A scan on Dean Ashton's knee has confirmed that he has strained his medial knee ligament. This means Ashton could be out of the West Ham squad for up to six weeks. West Ham head physiotherapist George Cooper commented,

"We received the results of Dean's scan and they were what we expected which is that he had sprained the upper third of his medial ligament. In the majority of cases it will take up to six weeks for full recovery."

It has also been confirmed that Craig Bellamy will join up with the Wales squad and be available for their second fixture next Wednesday.

Rizwan Darbar

Condolences to the family of Rizwan Darbar, an avid West Ham United fan, who was stabbed to death in West Ham Park on Sunday.

Rizwan was a student at Newham Sixth College, where I worked until very recently. I didn't know Rizwan personally but to hear of a boy (Rizwan would have been eighteen today) being killed in this manner is truly heartbreaking.

Monday, October 08, 2007

Bellamy on Come Back Trail

West Ham manager Alan Curbishley is wondering whether to give Wales permission to play Craig Bellamy in their game a week on Wednesday against San Marino,

"It's been five long weeks since Craig was streaking away from Reading's defence and scoring, but after having the same surgeon and the same operation as Michael Owen on Thursday, Craig did a little bit of running on Friday. It's a difficult situation because, if Craig's fit, then he could get some match fitness back for Wales before he plays for us against Sunderland."

With Dean Ashton out of the Sunderland game Curbishley is obviously desperate to have Bellamy available again. The question is does he gamble on letting Bellamy gain match fitness for Wales at the risk of him suffering another injury?

The Telegraph believe the England manager wouldn't have been impressed anyway with Dean Ashton's 'lumbering' performance against Villa.

The Daily Mail say for West Ham the game against Villa was the familiar story of leaving themselves too much to do after a poor opening period. "This was their third Premier League defeat in a row and their manager, Alan Curbishley, must make use of the international break to find a way of stopping the rot, as well as to trim a crippling injury list that now includes Henri Camara and poor Dean Ashton."

The Mirror believe Curbishley will lose his Pants. "I don't understand the reason for always being in West Ham's reserve team, and I don't know what is really happening at the club" said Pantsil. "I have told my agent that I am not happy to be in the reserves, and he should act very quickly."

The Sun say West Ham created plenty of chances as the match progressed but did not have the cutting edge they needed to equalise.

West Ham's Ashton Out of England Contention

Alan Curbishley has been quick to dismiss Dean Ashton's chances of recovering in time to play for England next week. Ashton injured his knee against Villa and Curbishley believes he could be out for more than two weeks.

'I think Ashton's very doubtful [for England],' said Alan Curbishley. 'Very doubtful. He couldn't run near the end. He's hurt his medial ligament. You could see he was labouring around at the end, but we'd made our substitutions. I think he swung to clear a ball and caught someone's boot and tweaked his medial knee ligament. He could walk around after the game, but it all depends how bad he's done it. I should imagine a week or even two weeks looks a bit tight.'

Saturday, October 06, 2007

West Ham on the BBC

There were only two matches on Match of the Day tonight so it was obvious that West Ham would appear in their normal slot just before the credits. A Man Utd practice game against Wigan is infinitely more important than any match featuring West Ham.

It is also hard to argue with the BBC's decision to give only 12 minutes of highlights in a programme of 45 minutes to the West Ham game. Any longer and Alan Shearer would have actually appeared on the programme less than the football.

As you can see - my anger tonight is being mainly directed at the BBC. After all if they had given us a few minutes more we might have actually got the equaliser.

My advice to Curbishley is to refuse to talk to the BBC, it obviously hasn't done the cheating Scottish swindler Alex Ferguson any harm.

West Ham in the Papers

The Daily Mirror ask Hayden Mullins about Reo-Coker's move from West Ham. Mullins seems to suggest Nigel Reo-Coker was caught up in the Baby Bentley culture and didn't concentrate on his football whilst at West Ham,

"It is very easy to get distracted as a young player. You are high profile. There is a lot of distractions in London. Nightclubs and other bits and pieces. Nigel probably felt that he needed to get out, which was probably the right choice.

He needs to concentrate on his career. The best thing was to get away from those kind of people."

The Mirror say that West Ham defender John Panstil has told his agent to find him a new club after failing to secure a place in the side under Alan Curbishley. The Mirror also speak to Ashley Young who thinks he was right to snub West Ham for Villa.

The Times says Martin O'Neill could give Marlon Harewood his first league start for Villa. They are of course right, O'Neill could start with the ex-West Ham striker, then again he might not.

Aston Villa vs West Ham Live Streams

With the West Ham game being the only 3'o clock kick off today you would think it would be featured on Radio Five. Well with no other football matches to cover the BBC have deemed to give us commentary for half a game.

West Ham Confirm Bellamy Op

West Ham have today confirmed that Craig Bellamy travelled to Germany where he underwent an operation on his hernia. Bellamy went to Germany to consult the doctor who has been treating Michael Owen. According to West Ham Head physio, George Cooper,

"She advised he had the operation and predicted he would be back within 14 days. So he had the surgery, it went very well and he walked out of the centre the same day and we flew back later that night.

He can start running three days after the operation, building up to sprinting after five days then gradually building up to training and playing within a fortnight."

West Ham Send Bellamy to Germany

Following yesterday's news that Scott Parker is out for three weeks today we learn that Bellamy has been sent to Germany for treatment on his injury. Apparently Bellamy has been sent to the same German quack who has been helping Michael Owen.

“We are hoping we will get a definitive answer soon and if we get the same response Newcastle got with Michael Owen in 8-12 days, we’ll be very happy.”

Which suggests that Bellamy will be out for the next two weeks.

West Ham keep releasing these injury updates on the sly and with a positive spin, as if it is good news that the players will be out of contention for a number of weeks. The club are obviously worried at a fan backlash at the club's summer policy of buying players with long injury records.

West Ham were obviously unlucky with Flaubert's injury but no-one has been that surprised with the injuries to Parker, Dyer and Bellamy. In fact the Newcastle blogs have been crowing "We told you so!" all week.

Thursday, October 04, 2007

WE57 HAM: The £40,000 Number Plate

The DVLA are putting the number plate WE57 HAM up for auction later this month and they expect it to sell for more than £40,000. The number plate AR53 NAL sold for £36,000 in 2004 and the DVLA expect the West Ham plate to go for significantly more.

West Ham Injury Update

Following last night's news that Scott Parker will be out injured for three to four weeks, Mervyn Day has given an update on the rest of the West Ham team ahead of Saturday's game against Vila,

"Anton Ferdinand won't be available, Craig Bellamy won't either. Scott Parker won't be available for a few weeks and Nigel Quashie and Calum Davenport are still recovering.

Anton has a slight hamstring strain. Scott Parker has damaged his medial ligaments following that challenge from Matthieu Flamini on Saturday. Craig Bellamy has an ongoing groin problem and is seeing a consultant in Germany."

Day didn't mention Zamora in his update so I presume he is fit to play.

Wednesday, October 03, 2007

West Ham Gossip

Christian Dailly has been named in the Scotland squad. Dailly hasn't featured in Scotland's recent outings but now he is getting regular first team football on loan to Southampton he has been recalled. Southampton have leaked nine goals in the three games since Dailly joined their defence.

West Ham are among a number of Premier League clubs being linked with Metz defender Cheikh Gueye. The 20 yr old French player has recently signed a five year contract but, the likely to be relegated, Metz side will struggle to hold onto their rising star.

West Ham super model Freddie Ljungberg is giving up his underwear. Ljungberg has decided a modelling career is no longer for him and has decided to concentrate on his football.

West Ham Against West Ham Rejects

I understand that after Marlon Harewood's gift of a penalty to Sp~@s West Ham have phoned up Villa demanding the activation of a clause in his contract.

When West Ham sold Harewood to Villa they insisted on a clause that when the two sides meet Harewood must play.

On the other hand I am a little worried that Reo-Coker will have one of his occasional blinders. Reo-Coker always seemed to raise his game against some of the bigger teams in the Premier League, trying to impress for a future move. Similarly I'm sure he'll raise his game against West Ham feeling he has something to prove.

Monday, October 01, 2007

When Spurs Are Relegated

I've been watching Sp#rs vs Villa wondering which players West Ham should buy when our north east London rivals get relegated.

I think Bale and Berbatov could do a job at West Ham and I'm sure they will be available on the cheap at the end of the season.

Sp@rs made a big deal before the start of this game about this being their 125th anniversary. I think it has been very supportive of the Villa fans to not stop singing "Happy Birthday to You" since their third goal went in.

Oh well, it's quite sweet to see the spud fans so happy with a draw at home to Villa.

Bellamy Injury Update

Craig Bellamy has been called up to the Wales squad despite missing the last two weeks for West Ham. Alan Curbishley says the injury is probably no more than a groin strain,

"He's trained Thursday and Friday perfectly, then felt sore again, so we've had to pull him out again. So we have some thinking to do about the injury.

We don't think it is particularly serious but we have to get to the bottom of it. Since he's been with us he's been wearing different orthotics to help an old injury, and it has worked, but it has caused something else.

He's got this groin strain, which we don't think is any more than that."

West Ham News

The Mirror picked up on the fact that Kolo Toure threw a West Ham away after the game. He swapped shirts with West Ham's Henri Camara and then promptly threw it to the Arsenal fans in the away section.

The Mirror also convert Curbishley's understated comment that the linesman got it wrong in disallowing West Ham's goal into a 'rage'.

The Daily Mail say that the West Ham manager has pleaded that Ashton be given more time before being selected for England but Ashton is ready to answer England's call,

"Whether it's Aston Villa next Saturday for West Ham or England against Estonia in a couple of weeks time, I am ready."

The Telegraph say England need to stop pinning their hopes on Michael Owen and Ashton is England's obvious choice for the future.

The Guardian praise West Ham's keeper Rob Green who prevented Arsenal from devastating West Ham.